Flexibowl gets even more flexible

Several new developments are now set to widen the application scope of this system and the first is a specific URCap for FlexiBowl.

The new, FlexiBowl URCap connects the feeder and the UR controller, enabling applications to be set up via the UR Teach Pendant. It’s a simple and reliable way to create a dedicated solution without the need for time-consuming programming.

This plug-and-play URCap is designed to control multiple FlexiBowls at the same time and is ideal for manufacturers whose production
involves frequent product changeovers and reduced volumes. See it in action at https://youtu.be/FQl8rwr_fR8

RARUK Automation has also introduced a new model to its FlexiBowl range.  It’s the FB200, now the smallest in the series, for part sizes from 1-10mm, weighing 30g. The largest model is for parts from 60-250mm, weighing 250g. Entire families of parts can be handled by a single FlexiBowl replacing the need for a whole set of dedicated vibratory bowl feeders. 

FlexiBowl separates and orientates the parts through the movement
produced by a rotary disc and flip unit. RARUK Automation stock a wide range of interchangeable standard discs in different colours, sizes, textures and degrees of surface adhesion to suit the application; custom discs are also available. 

By adjusting the acceleration, deceleration, speed, angle and impulse frequency, optimal parts distribution is achieved. A vision system can then locate them and generate coordinates for robot picking.

Also new is the FlexiBowl 'quick empty' feature. This is another valuable option for just-in-time operation and small
batch sizes. Available on models FB500, 650 and 800, this feature eliminates the need for manual handling by lowering a panel in the side wall of the bowl so separated parts are automatically ejected from the FlexiBowl. See how this works at https://youtu.be/_Gwq5YRoSIE

Other options to boost FlexiBowl productivity now include multiple parts feeding and FlexiTrack, an innovative feature that increases the flexibility, modularity and productivity of the system by up to 100 percent.

Multiple hoppers allow each sector on a multi-sector disc
to be filled with different components. The camera-controlled bulk feeder only drops the parts into the sectioned disc when they are needed, an operation that works simultaneously with robot picking to save time.  Four- and three-sector discs are now available from RARUK Automation for picking two or three different parts respectively.

FlexiTrack enables the circular conveyor tracking to achieve a faster feed rate and includes a second camera. The combination boosts pick rates from an average of 40-50 parts per minute to between 70-90 parts per minute. See it here picking electronic connectors: https://youtu.be/xj2poCngKng